Follow Us on Google
From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
President Bola Tinubu has described Ewi of Ado-Ekiti, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Rufus Adeyemo Adejugbe Aladesanmi III, leadership as inspirational to Nigerians.
Represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, at the celebration marking a dual milestone of his 80th birthday and the 35th anniversary of his coronation, President Tinubu highlighted the Ewi’s platinum jubilee as an occasion not only of pride for the people of Ado-Ekiti and Ekiti State but for all Nigerians.
The President described the Ewi stool as “one of the most ancient and revered thrones in Yorubaland,” carrying centuries of history, governance, and spiritual stewardship. He said, “For more than three decades, Oba Adejugbe has embodied these sacred responsibilities with uncommon grace and distinction.”
Under the Ewi’s reign, Ado-Ekiti has seen “significant sociocultural renewal, deepened communal harmony, and increased engagement with institutions of governance,” he remarked, adding that the monarch has been a “steadfast advocate for education, youth development, peace-building, and the preservation of Ekiti’s moral values.” These qualities, Tinubu noted, have earned the Ewi admiration far beyond the borders of Ekiti State.
President Tinubu called the 80th anniversary a “remarkable milestone—a journey woven with memories, wisdom, laughter, service, and cherished stories,” and framed the 35 years on the throne as a testament to “a monarch whose leadership has remained dignified, principled, and inspirational.”
“His Imperial Majesty has not only preserved the prestige of the Ewi stool, he has elevated it—demonstrating the highest ideals of integrity, humility, courage, and patriotic commitment,” President Tinubu added. He emphasized that the Ewi’s life and reign underscore the “enduring value of traditional institutions in our national development.”
Other News
The President prayed for “renewed strength, long life, and continuous fulfilment on the throne of his ancestors.” He also reaffirmed its respect for His Majesty’s contributions to national unity, stability, and culture.
He also extended warm congratulations to the royal family, the traditional council, and the Ekiti people, recognizing a leader “whose life continues to illuminate the path of justice, wisdom, and communal progress.”
“On this joyful occasion, we celebrate not just the age of 80, but a reign that has deepened the cultural dignity of Ekiti, strengthened the fabric of national peace, and captured the admiration of a grateful nation,” he concluded.
